Pack your bags, dust off your maps, and gas up the van, it’s time for an epic road trip adventure. With the open road beckoning and the promise of new horizons, there’s perhaps no better way to experience the freedom of travel than in the comfort of a cargo van.
Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or a first-timer, one of the keys to an unforgettable road trip lies in the ingenuity of your preparations. This guide is designed to take your cargo van from functional to fabulous, ensuring comfort, convenience, and a dash of luxury on your next odyssey.
Read on to learn more about the cargo van accessories.
Table of Contents
Comfort is Key: Van Interiors that Feel Like Home
When it comes to long road trips, comfort is essential. After all, you’ll spend considerable time in your cargo van, so why not make it feel like home? This section will cover some tips and tricks for creating a cozy and inviting interior that will make you never want to leave your van.
Invest in Quality Bedding
Let’s face it, sleeping on a thin foam mattress can be uncomfortable and leave you feeling achy in the morning. Invest in quality bedding, such as a memory foam or gel-infused mattress topper, to ensure a good night’s rest while on the road. This will provide extra support and cushioning for your body, making for a more restful sleep.
Add Some Personal Touches
Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you must sacrifice your style. Bring throw pillows, blankets, and decor items to make your van feel like home. Not only will this add a touch of personality to your space, but it can also provide additional comfort.
Utilize Storage Space Efficiently
In a cargo van, space is limited, so it’s crucial to utilize every inch wisely. Invest in storage solutions such as hanging shelves, under-bed storage containers, and tote bags that can be hung on the walls or ceiling of your van. This will keep your belongings organized and free up valuable floor space for moving around.
Custom Mattress Solutions
The quality of your sleep can make or break your road trip. Ditch the standard van seats and invest in a custom mattress that fits the dimensions of your cargo space. Various companies offer memory foam mattresses that are comfortable and compatible with your daily driving routine’s inevitable twists and turns.
Swivel Seats for Versatile Living Space
Adapt your interior for any situation with swivel seats that can turn your front cabin into a makeshift dining area or workstation. These can be a game-changer in the confined space of a van, allowing for more comfortable and varied living arrangements without the need for constant rearrangement.
Essential Kitchen Gear for the Road
One of the greatest joys of van life is the ability to cook and eat on the road. With a well-equipped kitchen, you can say goodbye to fast food and hello to delicious home-cooked meals no matter where your journey takes you. Here are some essential kitchen gear items that every cargo van traveler should have.
Portable Stove and Compact Cookware Sets
Take your culinary skills on the road with a portable stove that hooks up to an external propane tank, eliminating the need for charcoal or kindling. Pair this with a compact cookware set explicitly fitted for your stovetop, ensuring that you never compromise on the quality of your meals during your adventure.
Foldaway Tables and Benches
Space is everything in a cargo van; foldaway tables and benches provide a dining area that stores flat against the walls when not in use. With space at a premium, these items prove invaluable for keeping your living area clear when you’re not eating and providing a firm foundation for meals on the move.
Solar-Powered Fridge
Say goodbye to soggy sandwiches and warm drinks with a solar-powered fridge that runs off your van’s battery. This convenient addition allows you to keep perishable foods fresh for longer, providing more meal options and saving you from frequent trips to the grocery store.
Collapsible Sink and Water Containers
Washing dishes on the road can be a hassle, but clean-up becomes a breeze with a collapsible sink and water containers. These items are compact and easy to store when not in use, making them perfect for the limited space of a cargo van.
Convenience is Key: Must Have Van Accessories
Aside from comfort, convenience is another essential factor to consider when preparing your cargo van for a road trip. These must-have accessories will make your life easier and add a touch of luxury to your travels.
Portable Shower and Privacy Tent
This van accessory will help you stay fresh and clean on the road. Invest in a pop-up tent for a changing room or an outdoor bathroom for privacy. These accessories will make you feel like you have all the comforts of home at your fingertips.
Invest in a Portable Shower
There may not always be access to showers on the road, so investing in a portable shower can make all the difference. Whether you opt for a solar shower or a battery-powered one, having the option to freshen up on the go will make your road trip much more convenient and enjoyable.
Don’t Forget about Safety
While road trips can be exciting, focusing on safety is essential. Ensure your van has a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and emergency camper van supplies such as a flashlight, jumper cables, and a tire repair kit. Having a working phone with you in emergencies is also a good idea.
Navigational and Safety Upgrades for Your Van
Ensuring your van is outfitted with the latest navigational and safety features is not just about convenience; it’s a critical aspect of preparing for any road trip.
Install a GPS Navigation System
While paper maps can be fun, having a reliable GPS navigation system is essential for any road trip. Invest in one designed for RVs and cargo vans, as these will provide more accurate directions based on the size and weight of your vehicle.
In the modern age, knowing the whereabouts of your vehicle is as simple as glancing at your smartphone. GPS trackers provide an additional layer of security, allowing you to remotely monitor your van’s location to keep your possessions and peace of mind safe and secure.
Dash Cams and Backup Cameras
Safety on the road is a priority; dash cams and backup cameras are indispensable accessories. Capture scenic drives or unforeseen accidents with a reliable dash cam. At the same time, a backup camera eases the stress of maneuvering in tight spaces, ensuring you see every inch of your surroundings.
Organization and Storage Solutions for a Clutter Free Van
With limited space in your cargo van, organization, and storage solutions are crucial to keeping things tidy and clutter-free.
Hanging Shelves and Storage Containers
Maximize vertical space by installing hanging shelves on the sides of your van’s interior. These provide ample storage space for clothes, cooking utensils, or toiletries. Additionally, using storage containers with handles that can be hung on the shelves will help keep your belongings organized and accessible.
Utilize Any Empty Space
Don’t let any space in your van go to waste. Utilize empty areas under the bed, between seats, or above cabinets for additional storage. Invest in collapsible crates or bags that can be stored flat when not in use, and fill them with items that are not needed daily.
Magnetic Strips for Small Items
Use magnetic strips to keep small metal items such as knives, scissors, or keys organized and easily accessible. These can be installed on your van’s interior walls or cabinets, freeing up valuable drawer space for more oversized items.
Roof Racks for Oversized Gear
Take advantage of the vertical space in your van with a sturdy roof rack. A well-fitted roof rack is ideal for storing kayaks, surfboards, or additional luggage, so you’re ready for any outdoor activity without encroaching on your living quarters inside the van.
Modular Storage Units and Organizers
Keep clutter at bay with modular storage units and organizers that fit the shape of your van. From hanging compartments for clothes to secure cubbies for electronics, these systems are designed to maximize available space, keeping your goods stowed and your living areas clear.
Electrical and Connectivity Enhancements for Your Van
In the digital age, staying connected is essential, even on the road. These electrical and connectivity enhancements will ensure you’re always powered up and ready to share your adventures with loved ones.
Solar Panels for Off-the-Grid Power
Stay powered up no matter how far off the beaten path your travels take you with the help of solar panels. Charge your devices, power lighting, or even run a small refrigerator, all while living sustainably with harnesses of the sun’s power.
Multi-Plug Adapters and USB Hubs
In an age where connectivity is king, ensure your cargo van is a modern oasis with multi-plug adapters and USB hubs throughout. These small but mighty devices keep your gadgets juiced and your entertainment flowing, whether on the road or settling in for the night.
Install a WiFi Booster
Investing in a WiFi booster is a game-changer for those who need to stay connected, even in remote locations. These devices amplify weak signals from nearby networks, providing more reliable internet access on the road.
Entertainment and Relaxation Solutions for Your Van
After a long day on the road, it’s essential to have some downtime and relaxation. These entertainment solutions will ensure you can unwind and recharge in your cargo van.
Portable Projector for Movie Nights
Transform your van into a mini-cinema with a portable projector that can be set up inside or outside of your vehicle. Watch movies under the stars or inside your cozy van, making for an unforgettable movie night on the road.
Portable Speakers for Music on the Go
Music is a crucial element of any road trip, and portable speakers are a must-have accessory. With Bluetooth connectivity and long battery life, these speakers will provide high-quality sound no matter where your travels may take you.
Folding Chairs and Hammocks
Make the most of your outdoor space by bringing folding chairs and hammocks. These provide a comfortable place to sit, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Board Games and Books for Indoor Entertainment
For those rainy days or nights when you want to stay cozy inside, bring some board games or books for entertainment. This will provide a fun way to pass the time and create lasting memories with your travel companions.
Outdoor Gear for Unplanned Adventures
Stoke your spontaneous side with a kit of essential outdoor gear. This could include fold-up chairs, portable grills, and even a hammock for those impromptu stops that turn into sunset hangouts. Be ready to make the most of any location you discover.
Audio Systems to Suit Your Taste
The right music can transform a good road trip into a great one. Choose an audio system that works for you, whether a set of powerful Bluetooth speakers or a complex setup with speakers throughout your van. Invest in sound-deadening material for audiophiles to block out road noise and immerse yourself in your playlist.
Converted vans offer a unique blend of freedom, convenience, and the exhilaration of a nomadic lifestyle. They embody the spirit of adventure, allowing individuals to explore the wonders of the natural world or the bustling streets of new cities with all the comforts of home.
For many, a converted van isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a mobile haven representing a deliberate choice to pursue a less ordinary life filled with experiences and memories that are as rich and diverse as the landscapes they travel through.
Exploring the Cargo Van Accessories
Packing for an extended road trip in a cargo van is a delicate balance of necessity and luxury. With the right cargo van accessories, your van can become a personalized oasis that keeps you comfortable, entertained, and prepared for the unexpected. From optimized storage to in-vehicle entertainment, each addition enhances your overall experience, turning a mode of transport into a cherished home on the road.
As you plan your next adventure, consider these must-have accessories to ensure your cargo van is equipped for a lifetime trip.
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